Manchester City may receive a boost before their Champions League round of 16 first leg against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
Real Madrid is expected to arrive at the Etihad Stadium without one of their key defenders, which could give City’s attack an advantage.
Left-back Alvaro Carreras has played a vital role for Real Madrid this season, but he will miss the match due to injury.
Fabrizio Romano confirms Alvaro Carreras injury before Man City clash
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
The injury update was shared by journalist Fabrizio Romano, who noted that the defender will not play against Manchester City.
Romano stated, “Alvaro Carreras has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in the calf of his right leg, Real Madrid confirm. He’s gonna be out for Man City vs Real Madrid on Wednesday.”
Carreras, a former Manchester United player, joined Real Madrid this season and quickly became the starting left-back.
He missed Real Madrid’s recent 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo due to a suspension, making his injury unexpected.
As the second leg against Manchester City is scheduled for next week, there are concerns he might miss both matches.
Ferland Mendy likely to replace Alvaro Carreras in Real Madrid starting XI
With Carreras out, Ferland Mendy is likely to take his place in the starting lineup for the first leg.
The French full-back was the main option at left-back last season, though injuries have limited his appearances.
According to SofaScore, Mendy has played only four games this season, totaling 202 minutes. He has not scored or assisted in any matches, while Carreras has two goals and two assists in 32 games.
This difference in form means Manchester City should carefully consider this development ahead of the first leg.